Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of Erigeron floribundus (Kunth) Sch. Bip.: a Review

Antimicrobial Powerhouse

• Bacteria: Essential oil inhibits Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 0.41 mg/mL) and E. coli .
• Fungi: Dichloromethane extract combats Microsporum canis (MIC: 0.25 mg/mL), a common dermatophyte .
• Parasites: Oil inhibits Trypanosoma brucei (IC₅₀: 33.5 μg/mL), the parasite causing sleeping sickness .

Cancer and Inflammation

• Antiproliferative: Essential oil kills colon cancer cells (IC₅₀: 14.89 μg/mL) .
• Pain Relief: Aqueous extract reduces inflammation in rats, outperforming aspirin in some tests .

Immune Modulation

• Enhances neutrophil and lymphocyte counts in rabbits, reversing immunosuppression caused by steroids .

Agricultural Applications: A Sustainable Biopesticide

In Central Africa, E. floribundus extracts rival synthetic fungicides in tomato farming:

Treatment	Disease Incidence	Yield Impact	Reference
Banana peel-NaHCO₃	Low	High vigor, robust yield
E. floribundus extract	Comparable to Dithane M45	Promotes growth
Chemical control (Dithane M45)	Baseline	Baseline

Farmers report reduced reliance on harmful chemicals, aligning with eco-friendly practices.

Toxicology: Safety and Gaps

Current studies show promising safety profiles:

• Essential oils selectively target microbial enzymes without harming mammalian cells .
• No acute toxicity reported in traditional preparations.

However, long-term toxicity and dosage guidelines remain understudied—a critical gap for future research.

Conclusion: A Plant for the Future

Erigeron floribundus exemplifies nature’s ingenuity, offering solutions for health and agriculture. While modern science validates its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory prowess, its role in sustainable farming highlights its versatility. Bridging ethnobotany and pharmacology, this plant invites further exploration—especially in toxicology and drug development. As we face antibiotic resistance and ecological crises, E. floribundus stands as a testament to the power of traditional knowledge refined by science.

Tables and Visuals

Phytochemical Profile: Highlights key compounds and their sources.

Pharmacological Activities: Summarizes antimicrobial, anticancer, and immunomodulatory effects.

Agricultural Efficacy: Compares biopesticides with synthetic alternatives.